The Florida Veterans Foundation 10th Anniversary Gala with Bobby Bowden. 10th Anniversary Gala with Bobby Bowden Load More >> Back to Galleries

Veteran Assistance Contacts | Listed below are the main point of contact for vital veteran crisis and support hotlines. Veteran Assistance Contacts Listed below are the main point of contact for vital veteran crisis and support hotlines. Florida Veteran Get Help Now Crisis Hotline If you or a loved one need support or connections to community resources as a veteran, call the Florida Veterans Support Line. 1-844-693-5838 National VA Homeless Hotline Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness—and their family members, friends and supporters—can call in where trained counselors are ready to talk confidentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 1-877-424-3838 National Veteran Crisis Hotline Are you a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one? You're not alone—the Veterans Crisis Line is here for you. You don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits or healthcare to call. 1-800-273-8255 VA Caregiver Support Line VA's National Caregiver Support Line is a toll-free number for caregivers, family members, friends, Veterans, and community partners to contact for information related to caregiving and available supports and services. 1-855-260-3274 VA Health Care Hotline If you have questions regarding VA Health Care you can call in to the national hotlines to receive answers. 1-877-222-8387 VA Benefits Hotline For information regarding your federal VA Benefits, contact the VA Benefits Hotline below. 1-800-827-1000 MyVA411 Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—simplifies and improves customer access to VA through a single, easy-to-remember phone number. 1-800-698-2411 VA Benefits for Women Veterans Hotline The Women Veterans Call Center will help you navigate VA, point you in the right direction, and connect you with the Women Veterans Program Manager at your local VA medical center. 1-855-829- 6636 GI Bill Hotline Students and School Certifying Officials can contact the VA by phone for questions and answers regarding the GI Bill. 1-888-442- 4551 National VA Homeless Hotline Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness—and their family members, friends and supporters—can call in where trained counselors are ready to talk confidentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 1-877-424-3 838 Florida Homeless Veterans Coordinator Florida’s Homeless Veterans Coordinator can be reached by calling the phone number below. 727-575-8136 Florida Veterans Support Line 1-844-MyFLVet is a toll free number that veterans and their loved one’s can call 24/7 for emotional support and information pertaining to community resources. 1-844-693-5838 To access the online Ask VA (AVA) go to: https://ask.va.gov/

Visit our past event galleries here! Showcased is our 10th Anniversary Gala with Bobby Bowden and our 2023 Legislative Reception. Past Event Galleries 10th Anniversary Gala Military Legislative Reception 2023

For Veterans 65 years of age or older. The VA Offers two broad categories of Pension benefit programs: ​ Veterans Pension: Tax-free monetary benefit payable to wartime Veterans. ​ Survivors Pension: Tax-free monetary benefit payable to an un-remarried Surviving Spouse and/or unmarried child(ren) of a deceased Veteran with wartime service. ​ I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Partnerships & Collaborations Vet's Wish- Community Services Vet’s Wish is dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of our military veterans by creating memorable experiences for them and their families. Whether it’s fulfilling an immediate need or realizing a lifelong dream, their mission is to express heartfelt gratitude through meaningful actions by granting wishes for military heroes. Wishes range from providing essential items to organizing family reunions, final vacations, personal hero meet-and greets, and reconnecting veterans with their military past. https://mywish.org/about-vets-wish/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4aAp9g7aEY Five Star Veterans Center- Veteran Support, Transition, Training Located in Jacksonville, Florida, the center offers a wide range of services aimed at helping veterans transition successfully into civilian life. These services often include housing, job placement assistance, mental health counseling, and various educational and training programs. The Five Star Veterans Center plays a vital role in ensuring that veterans receive the care and resources they deserve after serving their country, helping them regain their independence and lead fulfilling lives as they reintegrate into civilian society. https://www.5starveteranscenter.org/ Florida Association of Counties- Veteran Resources The Florida Association of Counties (FAC) plays a vital role in supporting and advocating for the veteran community within the state. Through various programs and initiatives, FAC collaborates with local governments to ensure veterans receive the services and assistance they deserve, ranging from healthcare access to employment opportunities, thus contributing to the well-being and integration of veterans in Florida's communities. https://www.fl-counties.com/ United Way- Community Services United Way 211.org is a valuable resource that connects individuals and communities in the United States to essential social services and support. This non-profit organization operates a 24/7 helpline (211) and an online database, enabling people to easily access information and assistance in times of crisis or when facing various challenges. Whether it's finding food assistance, shelter, mental health services, or information on financial aid programs, United Way 211.org acts as a lifeline, helping people navigate complex social service systems and connecting them to the appropriate resources. https://www.211.org/ https://www.unitedwaybroward.org/ Florida Department of Veterans Affairs- Veteran Services, Claims, Advisors, Referrals, Resources The Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (FDVA) is dedicated to serving veterans by providing essential benefits, assistance, and support. Their network of County Veteran Service Officers (CVSOs) across the state plays a pivotal role in ensuring veterans receive personalized guidance and access to benefits at the local level, helping veterans navigate the complexities of the system and ensuring they receive the recognition and assistance they deserve for their service and sacrifice. https://www.floridavets.org/ Florida Veterans Council- Veteran Services, Legislative, VSO The Florida Veterans Council is a coalition of various veteran service organizations and advocates dedicated to advancing the interests and welfare of veterans in the state of Florida. They play a crucial role in advocating for veterans' rights, collaborating with policymakers, and promoting initiatives that improve veterans' access to healthcare, education, employment opportunities, and benefits. Through their collective efforts, the Florida Veterans Council seeks to ensure that veterans receive the support and recognition they deserve for their service to the nation. https://floridalegion.org/ Goodwill- Veteran Services Goodwill provides valuable support to veterans through its various programs and services. They offer job training, placement, and career development assistance, helping veterans transition into civilian employment successfully. Additionally, Goodwill often collaborates with veteran-focused organizations to provide tailored support and resources for veterans as they reintegrate into the workforce and community. https://www.goodwillcfl.org/ Heroes Mile- Veteran Rehabilitation Program Heroes Mile is a veteran rehabilitation program dedicated to providing comprehensive support to veterans recovering from physical and psychological challenges resulting from their military service. Through a holistic approach, Heroes Mile offers a range of services, including therapy, counseling, vocational training, and community reintegration, helping veterans regain their independence, improve their overall well-being, and successfully transition into civilian life. https://www.heroesmile.com/ Valor at Riverside Recovery- Veteran Rehabilitation Program "Our VALOR program specializes in substance abuse and helping military, both active duty and veterans, combat PTSD and other trauma-related issues that contribute to substance abuse. Participants will take part in at least 1 hour of weekly psychotherapy with a Licensed Therapist in order to address the following: triggers for use, family dynamics that may or may not contribute to maladaptive pattern of substance use, setting boundaries that lead to long term recovery and healthy relationships going forward, and how to manage emotional dysregulation. The individual therapist will aid the participant in the development of distress tolerance skills to use in place of mind and mood-altering substances, while helping the client connect to the powerlessness and unmanageability of disease." https://rrtampa.com/valor/ Project Vet Relief- Emergency Financial Assistance The Project Vet Relief Emergency Financial Assistance program provides vital financial support to veterans facing unexpected and urgent financial crises. Through this program, eligible veterans receive assistance with critical expenses such as housing, utilities, medical bills, and other immediate needs, helping them regain stability and peace of mind during challenging times. It serves as a lifeline for veterans in crisis, ensuring they can overcome financial hardships and continue on their path to self-sufficiency. https://projectvetrelief.org/what-we-do/emergency-assistance/ Veterans Florida- Education, Training, Career Veterans Florida is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans in Florida transition to civilian life successfully. They provide veterans with valuable resources and support, including career development programs, job placement assistance, and educational opportunities, helping veterans secure meaningful employment and build fulfilling post-military careers in the state of Florida. https://www.veteransflorida.org/ Legal B ay Area Legal Services- Legal Helpline Bay Area Legal Services is an organization dedicated to providing essential legal assistance and support to veterans in the Bay Area region. They offer legal representation and guidance to help veterans navigate a variety of legal issues, including those related to veterans' benefits, housing, employment, and other areas of civil law. By offering their expertise, Bay Area Legal Services plays a crucial role in ensuring veterans have access to the legal resources they need to protect their rights and secure the benefits they have earned through their military service. https://bals.org/ Veterans Treatment Courts- Treatment Court Florida Veterans Treatment Courts (VTCs) are specialized court programs designed to address the unique needs of veterans who have become involved with the criminal justice system. These courts aim to divert veterans away from incarceration and instead provide them with access to rehabilitation, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment. By offering a supportive and structured environment, Florida VTCs help veterans rebuild their lives, reduce recidivism, and reintegrate into society as productive and law-abiding citizens while also acknowledging their military service. https://www.flcourts.gov/Resources-Services/Office-of-Problem-Solving-Courts/Veterans-Courts Suicide Prevention America's Warrior Project- Suicide Prevention America's Warrior Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans by offering a variety of programs and resources aimed at enhancing their well-being and overall quality of life. They provide veterans with opportunities for camaraderie, physical fitness, and mental health support through initiatives such as recreational activities, peer-to-peer support networks, and wellness programs. America's Warrior Project strives to empower veterans, fostering a sense of community and resilience as they transition to civilian life. https://www.americaswarriorpartnership.org/ FireWatch- Suicide Prevention Training FireWatch is a nonprofit organization that provides critical mental health support and suicide prevention services to veterans and their families. They offer a lifeline to veterans in crisis, connecting them with trained responders who understand the unique challenges veterans face and are ready to provide immediate assistance and resources to help them through difficult times. FireWatch's mission is to ensure that no veteran feels alone or without support in their battle against mental health issues and suicide. https://www.thefirewatch.org/ Florida Governors Challenge- Suicide Prevention The Florida Governor's Challenge brings together military and civilian organizations, along with community leaders, to collaborate on initiatives aimed at improving the overall well-being of Florida's veterans and their families. This initiative focuses on addressing various challenges faced by veterans, such as healthcare access, employment opportunities, mental health support, and housing. Through partnerships and collaborative efforts, the Florida Governor's Challenge seeks to enhance the quality of life for veterans and ensure they receive the comprehensive support they deserve. https://floridavets.org/governors-challenge/ Resource Locators and Referrals Crisis Center of Tampa Bay- Mental Crisis The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay plays a vital role in supporting veterans by providing a range of crisis intervention and mental health services. They offer specialized programs and resources aimed at addressing the unique challenges veterans may face, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and readjustment difficulties, helping veterans regain stability and improve their overall well-being. The center's dedicated staff and programs contribute to ensuring that veterans in the Tampa Bay area receive the essential assistance and support they need during challenging times. https://www.crisiscenter.com/ By County Community Services- Florida Non-Profits GreatNonprofits is a platform that allows individuals to share and read reviews about nonprofit organizations, including those serving veterans. For veterans and their families, GreatNonprofits provides valuable insights and information on various nonprofits specializing in veteran support, allowing them to make informed decisions when seeking assistance, services, or charitable organizations to support. These reviews offer a firsthand perspective on the effectiveness and impact of different nonprofits, helping veterans connect with organizations that can best meet their specific needs and preferences. https://greatnonprofits.org/ FDVA Patriot Navigators- Referrals and Resources FDVA Patriot Navigators is a specialized program within the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs dedicated to offering targeted support to the community including veterans facing complex challenges, such as homelessness or mental health issues. Patriot Navigators provide personalized case management and assistance, helping veterans navigate the intricate web of services, benefits, and resources available to them. Through this program, veterans receive the guidance and support needed to regain stability in their lives and access the care and assistance they deserve. https://www.floridavets.org/ FindHelp.org- Resources by Topic/Need FindHelp.org is a valuable online resource that connects veterans with a comprehensive directory of organizations and services tailored to their unique needs. It helps veterans locate assistance related to healthcare, housing, employment, counseling, and other essential support, making it easier for them to access the resources they require to thrive and reintegrate into civilian life effectively. https://www.findhelp.org/ Florida League of Cities- Resources by Town/City The Florida League of Cities, while primarily focused on promoting the interests of local municipalities in Florida, also recognizes the importance of supporting veterans within their communities. They often collaborate with local governments to advocate for policies and initiatives that benefit veterans, such as affordable housing options, job opportunities, and access to healthcare services. Additionally, the League may participate in community events and programs designed to honor and assist veterans, contributing to their overall well-being and integration into the community. https://www.floridaleagueofcities.com/ Veterans Health Coordinated Assistance Networks- Mental Health Coordinated Assistance Networks (CAN) play a vital role in assisting veterans by providing a centralized platform for accessing various support services. CAN connects veterans with resources related to healthcare, housing, employment, and social services, streamlining the process and ensuring veterans receive comprehensive assistance tailored to their needs. This network serves as a valuable tool for veterans to navigate the complex landscape of available benefits and support programs, ultimately enhancing their well-being and quality of life. https://canportal.org/ Department of Children's and Families- Veteran and Families Health The Department of Children and Families typically has a primary focus is on child welfare, foster care, adoption, and family support services. However, in some cases, the department may collaborate with other state agencies, such as the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs, to ensure that veterans and their families receive comprehensive support and services, particularly when veterans are also parents or caregivers involved in the child welfare system. https://www.myflfamilies.com/ Department of Health- Veteran and Families Health The Department of Health plays a critical role in supporting veterans' healthcare needs by collaborating with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to ensure veterans have access to medical services, treatment, and specialized care. It also promotes public health initiatives to address the unique health challenges faced by veterans, including mental health and well-being, while working to improve the overall health and quality of life for veterans across the nation. https://www.floridahealth.gov/ Florida Association of Managing En tities- Mental Health The Florida Association of Managing Entities (FAME) plays a critical role in supporting veterans by advocating for and coordinating mental health and substance abuse services throughout the state. FAME collaborates with various service providers and agencies to ensure that veterans have access to quality behavioral health care and support, addressing their unique mental health needs as they transition to civilian life and beyond. https://flmanagingentities.com/ Northwest Florida Health Networks- Mental Health Northwest Florida Health Networks is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans in the northwestern region of Florida. They provide valuable support by connecting veterans with resources, services, and opportunities tailored to their needs, helping them access benefits, employment assistance, housing, and healthcare. Through their efforts, Northwest Florida Connects plays a pivotal role in improving the quality of life for veterans in the region, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve for their service to our nation. https://nwfhealth.org/ Oglethorpe Clinics- Mental Health Oglethorpe Clinics is dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services to veterans, ensuring they receive the highest quality medical care and support. Their specialized clinics offer a range of medical and mental health services, tailored to address the unique needs of veterans, helping them achieve and maintain optimal health and well-being. https://www.oglethorpeinc.com/ Shield of Faith Missions- Veteran Total Health, Suicide Prevention, Resilience Shield of Faith Missions is a nonprofit organization committed to preventing Veteran suicide by providing comprehensive whole health care. The treatment model of our Be Resilient Programs focuses on Psychological, Physical, Spiritual, and Social wellness, equipping Veterans and service members with the tools needed to heal, thrive, and regain their independence. Eligible participants receive individualized care and up to 365 days of follow-up support at no cost. https://sofmissions.org/ Soldiers Freedom Outdoors- Veteran Alternative Health Programs Soldiers Freedom Outdoors is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being of veterans through outdoor recreational activities. They provide veterans with opportunities to engage in outdoor adventures such as hunting, fishing, camping, and other recreational activities. These experiences not only offer veterans a chance to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of nature but also foster camaraderie, support, and a sense of community among those who have served in the military. Soldiers Freedom Outdoors aims to improve the physical and mental health of veterans while promoting their overall quality of life. https://www.soldiersfreedomoutdoors.org/ Steven A. Cohen Clinic- Mental Health The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic is a vital resource for veterans and their families, providing accessible and comprehensive mental health services. The clinic offers high-quality, evidence-based treatment for a wide range of mental health issues, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and more, with a focus on reducing barriers to care and improving the overall well-being of veterans and their loved ones. https://www.cohenveteransnetwork.org/ Veteran Health Hospitals and Clinics- Veteran Health Veteran Health Hospitals and Clinics, operated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), provide comprehensive healthcare services exclusively for veterans. These facilities offer a wide range of medical services, including primary care, specialized medical treatments, mental health care, rehabilitation, and preventive services, ensuring veterans receive high-quality healthcare tailored to their unique needs. Veteran Health Hospitals and Clinics are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of veterans, addressing both service-related and general medical concerns, with a commitment to delivering accessible and veteran-centric care. https://www.va.gov/bay-pines-health-care/ Transportation Disabled American Veterans (DAV)- Veterans Transportation The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support and advocacy for disabled veterans. DAV assists veterans by helping them navigate the complex process of securing disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Additionally, DAV offers a range of programs and services to improve the lives of disabled veterans, including transportation to medical appointments, employment support, and access to resources for veterans and their families. https://www.dav.org/get-help-now/medical-transportation/ FDVA Transportation- Veterans Transportation FDVA Transportation is a vital component of the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs, dedicated to ensuring veterans have access to reliable transportation services. They provide transportation solutions for veterans who may face challenges in getting to medical appointments, veterans' homes, or other essential destinations, thereby ensuring that veterans can access the healthcare and services they require conveniently and safely. https://www.va.gov/north-florida-health-care/dav-vans-transportation-for-veterans/#about-dav-services Special Populations National Association of Veterans and Families- Aging Veterans Benefit The National Association of Veterans' Families (NAVF) is dedicated to assisting veterans and their families, particularly in the context of the Aid and Attendance benefit provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). NAVF offers aid and attendance consultations to help veterans and their loved ones understand and access this crucial benefit, which provides additional financial assistance to veterans who require help with daily activities due to illness, disability, or aging. Through these consultations, NAVF aims to ensure that veterans receive the support they need to maintain their quality of life and access essential care services. https://www.navf.org/ Ashley's Cottage- Women Veteran's Support, Transition, Training Ashley's Cottage is dedicated to providing a haven for women veterans in need. This organization offers a welcoming and supportive community for veterans, offering shelter, companionship, and essential resources to help them rebuild their lives after military service. Ashley's Cottage aims to create a safe and nurturing environment where veterans can find the camaraderie and assistance they need on their journey to recovery and reintegration into civilian life. https://www.villagersforveterans.org/ Asset Limited Income Constrained Employment- Low Income Veterans Asset Limited Income Constrained Employment (ALICE) is a program that provides critical support to veterans who are facing financial hardship. ALICE assists veterans in accessing resources and services aimed at improving their financial stability, such as job training, employment placement, and access to affordable housing. By addressing the unique challenges veterans may encounter in the job market, ALICE helps them secure stable employment and achieve greater financial independence. https://unitedforalice.org/ Wounded Veteran Relief Fund- Wounded Veteran Dental + Well-Being The Wounded Veteran Relief Fund (WVRF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing crucial assistance to wounded veterans in need. WVRF offers financial aid and support services to help veterans with disabilities overcome the challenges they face, including medical expenses, housing, transportation, and other essential needs. Through its efforts, WVRF aims to improve the quality of life and promote the well-being of wounded veterans, ensuring they receive the assistance and care they deserve after their service to the nation. https://wvrf.org/ Northeast Florida Women- Women Veterans Support, Transition, Training Northeast Florida Women (NEFL Women) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting women veterans in the Northeast Florida region. They offer a range of services and programs designed to empower and assist women who have served in the military. NEFL Women provides a supportive community, resources, and advocacy to help women veterans successfully transition into civilian life, access healthcare and benefits, and pursue their personal and professional goals. https://forwomenvets.org/ Post 9/11 Veterans, Wounded Warrior Project- Post 9/11 Wounded Veterans The Post 9/11 Veterans, Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering veterans who have served in the U.S. military since September 11, 2001. WWP provides a variety of programs and services aimed at enhancing the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of these veterans. This includes initiatives such as mental health counseling, adaptive sports programs, educational and employment assistance, and community engagement activities, all designed to help post-9/11 veterans successfully transition to civilian life and overcome the challenges they may face due to their service-related injuries or experiences. https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/ Donors Ajax Paving Industries Ajax Paving Industries of Florida is a long-standing asphalt and infrastructure contractor known for delivering projects across Florida since 1981, with a strong focus on community engagement. They support causes like the Florida Veterans Foundation through their corporate giving program and partnerships, helping fund services that benefit veterans and their families. ajaxpavingfl.com

Representative Holcomb is originally from Maryland where he attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County earning a BA in Economics, later continuing his education at American Military University with a MA in Intelligence Studies. After moving to Florida in 2002, Rep. Holcomb and his wife, Stacey have two daughters and have resided in Hernando County for over twenty years. Representative Jeff Holcomb United States Navy Reserve, 2006-Present Lieutenant Representative Holcomb is originally from Maryland where he attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County earning a BA in Economics, later continuing his education at American Military University with a MA in Intelligence Studies. After moving to Florida in 2002, Rep. Holcomb and his wife, Stacey have two daughters and have resided in Hernando County for over twenty years. Rep. Holcomb, in addition to being a realtor, serves as an Intelligence Officer in the United States Navy Reserve since 2006. In 2016 LT Holcomb was called to active duty to fight ISIS in support Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq and Syria and Operation Resolute Support in Afghanistan. He served on the Master Air Attack Plan team in the Combat Plans Division of the Air Operations Center in Southwest Asia. During his service, he earned a Navy Commendation Medal and a Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal. Prior to his election into the Florida House of Representatives, Rep. Holcomb was elected to the Board of County Commissioners in November 2014 and was re-elected in 2018. In 2019, he served as Chairman of the Commission, and he also served as Chairman of the Hernando County Republican Executive Committee from 2018-2020. Rep. Holcomb has many years of community involvement that includes his work with the Hernando County Veterans Council, Hernando County Education Foundation, Tampa Bay Area Regional Transit Authority, Metropolitan Planning Organization, Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, Medical Examiner Board, Withlacoochee Regional Water Supply Authority, along with his support and participation in sixteen different local charities, and his efforts for the improvement of twelve County Parks. << Back to Veteran Legislators

OUR TEAM OUR TEAM FLORIDA VETERANS FOUNDATION, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS LEADERSHIP TEAM Dr. Pia S. Woodley, USN Ret. Chair Raymond Miller, USMC Ret. Chief Operating Officer Don Lanman, USA Vice Chair, District Director 7 Brooke Dennison Director of Outreach & Strategic Initiatives Beatrice Love-Moore, USN Secretary, District Director 1W Paul Kimbel, USA Lead Dental Program Director, Veterans Dental Program Adam Hooker Treasurer DISTRICT DIRECTORS Beatrice Love-Moore, USN District 1 West Vacant District 3 Joan Colosimo District 6 Shirley Combass District 1 East Dr. Damon Friedman District 4 Don Lanman, USA District 7 Huey Fourquet District 2 Vacant District 5 Angel Figueroa, USA District 8 MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Rear Admiral Rick Grant, USN Bruce Grant Bob Asztalos, USN Sen. Danny Burgess, USA Kristen Knapp Colonel Ben Findley, USAF Sen. Tom Wright Terry McCaffery - CHAIRS Chair Time of Service Branch of Service Dr. Pia Woodley, DBA 2025- Present U.S. Navy Dr. Dennis Baker, PhD 2021-2024 U.S. Navy Mr. Bob Asztalos 2019-2020 U.S. Navy Mr. Mike Mason 2017-2019 U.S. Marine Corps Mr. Washington Sanchez 2013-2016 U.S. Army Mr. John Hayes* 2010-2013 U.S. Marine Corps *Deceased

Meet the Florida Veterans' Foundation's Military Legislators of 2023 to 2024. Meet the Military Veteran Legislators 2025 – 2026 Florida Legislature Series The FVF is proud to honor the military veterans serving in the 2025 Florida Legislature by kicking off the “Meet the Military Veteran Legislators 2025-2026 Florida Legislature Series.” We welcome the members of the 2024-2026 Legislature who have served, or are currently serving, in the United State Military. We are especially gratified that six members are currently serving in uniform as Reservists or members of the Florida National Guard. We encourage you to share this background so that Floridians know the military heritage that exists in the Legislature and how some legislators are serving their country in two ways, by being a legislator and a service member. Bryan Av ila Florida Army National Guard, Currently Serving First Lieutenant READ BIO Danny Alvarez BIO COMING SOON READ BIO Dean Black United States Air Force 125th Fighter Wing, Florida Air National Guard READ BIO Danny Burgess Florida Army National Guard Currently Serving Major READ BIO John Snyder United States Marine Corps Corporal READ BIO Keith Truenow United States Air Force Airman READ BIO Wyman Duggan United States Marine Corps Commissioned Office r READ BIO Lisa Dunkley United States Army Veteran READ BIO Mike Giallombardo Florida Army National Guard, Currently Serving Warrant Officer READ BIO John Albert BIO COMING SOON READ BIO Jeff Holcomb United States Navy Reserve, 2006-Present Lieutenant READ BIO Bill Conerly BIO COMING SOON READ BIO Thomas Patterson "Pat" Maney United States Army Brigadier General READ BIO Fiona McFarland United States Navy Reserve Lieutenant, Drilling Reservist READ BIO Yvette Bennarroch BIO COMING SOON READ BIO Tom Keen United States Navy Naval Flight Officer READ BIO Michelle Salzman United States Army Specialist READ BIO David Smith United States Marine Corps (Retired) Colonel READ BIO

Give us your feedback! We would love to hear how you heard about us and your thoughts on our Florida Veteran initiatives. Give Us Your Feedback We’d love to hear what you thought about us. First name * Last name * Email Rate Our Services Poor Fair Good Very good Excellent Write your testimonial: How did you hear about us? How can we improve? Send Feedback Thanks for sharing your feedback with us!

This once in a lifetime opportunity will honor a Veteran’s legacy in the new documentary A State at War: Florida During WWII, which will be cherished forever. Feature a Veteran in an Upcoming PBS Film This once in a lifetime opportunity will honor a Veteran’s legacy in the new documentary A State at War: Florida During WWII, which will be cherished forever. 3 Donation Levels – your Veteran’s name in the film credits – your Veteran’s name in the film credits with rank, and branch of service or more – your Veteran’s name and photo in the film credits with their name, rank, branch, and years of service Donate Today, and we will include your Veteran’s Legacy in this historical and memorable film, and on the Florida Veterans Foundation Memorial webpage. Millions of people around the world will view the program on PBS stations and other venues in the years to come. Memorial recognition in the film is limited. Honor your Veteran’s legacy through Your donation and help to support Veterans in need through a variety of programs and services provided by the Florida Veterans Foundation. The film is scheduled to be released on Veterans Day 2023 on PBS. $500 $1000 $2000 Preserve Your Veteran’s Legacy In This Historical Film Today 3 Donation Levels – your Veteran’s name in the film credits – your Veteran’s name in the film credits with rank, and branch of service or more – your Veteran’s name and photo in the film credits with their name, rank, branch, and years of service Note: Only a $2000 or more donation is granted a photo submission $500 $1000 $2000 Memorial Day Video Donation Form First name Last name Email Rank Service Organization Enter the amount you wish to pay: $ Donate Thank you for helping us make a difference! Memorial Video Photo Upload If you are donating a total of $2000 or more please upload your photo submission here:

Jarrid “Jay” Collins is a highly-decorated Army Special Forces combat veteran and Purple Heart recipient with over two decades of service following in the footsteps of his WWII veteran adoptive father. Adopted and raised by his grandparents, Rep. Collins spent his early years on his family’s farm in Montana where he later started college before enlisting in the Army. Senator Jarrid "Jay" Collins Army Special Forces Combat Veteran Special Forces Jarrid “Jay” Collins is a highly-decorated Army Special Forces combat veteran and Purple Heart recipient with over two decades of service following in the footsteps of his WWII veteran adoptive father. Adopted and raised by his grandparents, Rep. Collins spent his early years on his family’s farm in Montana where he later started college before enlisting in the Army. Senator Collins attended American Military University earning a B.S. in Health Sciences, and later a graduate degree from Norwhich University in 2012. While attending Airborne School, our nation was attacked on 9/11. This harsh reality, coupled with hearing stories about Special Forces soldiers who were on the forward edge of the War on Terror, Rep. Collins was inspired to attend Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS). He was selected to become a Special Force Medic, rescuing a hypothermic classmate in the middle of an ice storm, and earned the leadership award at his Special Forces Graduation. As a Green Beret, Rep. Collins deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, and twice to South America. In his 2007 Afghanistan deployment, he was hit in the arm, continued fighting, and later helped perform surgery on himself in the field of battle. Staying in country, he returned to full combat operations after just thirty days of recovery. Rep. Collins would overcome his chronic injuries to be selected for US Army Special Operations Command, but ultimately had to have his leg amputated due to the severity of his condition. Following his amputation, he requalified as a fully deployable Green Beret and served over five more years on active duty. Following twenty-three years of service, Rep. Collins took a position with a nonprofit, overseeing the distribution of millions of meals to veterans, first responders, and those in need. As a committed family man, Rep. Collins is married to his wife of twenty-one years Layla, a retired veteran with twenty years of service herself, and a father to two young sons, Gabe and Colt. Having chosen Tampa as the place to raise their family, proud Floridians Jay and Layla are dedicated to serving their community. << Back to Veteran Legislators